Actor Bernard Hill, Identified for “The Lord of the Rings” and “Titanic,” Dies at 79

Famend actor Bernard Hill, celebrated for his highly effective performances in “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” and “Titanic,” has handed away on the age of 79, his agent Lou Coulson confirmed on Sunday morning.

Hill turned well known for his portrayal of Théoden, King of Rohan, within the epic fantasy movie sequence “The Lord of the Rings.” Becoming a member of the franchise within the second movie, “The Two Towers” (2002), he delivered a memorable efficiency that continued within the subsequent installment, “The Return of the King,” which garnered 11 Oscars.

In one of many trilogy’s most iconic scenes, Hill’s character, Théoden, delivers a stirring battle cry that rallies his troops to face impending doom. His impassioned speech, delivered on horseback, stays etched within the minds of followers: “Come up, come up, riders of Théoden! Spears shall be shaken, shields shall be splintered! A sword day, a pink day, ere the solar rises! Trip now! Trip now! Trip! Trip for spoil and the world’s ending! Dying! Dying! Dying!”

Moreover, Hill portrayed Captain Edward Smith within the tragic romance “Titanic” (1997), one of many few characters based mostly on an actual particular person within the movie. His poignant portrayal added depth to the narrative, incomes accolades alongside the film’s 11 Academy Awards.

Hill’s illustrious profession spanned throughout numerous genres, and he first gained prominence as Yosser Hughes within the British TV miniseries “Boys From the Blackstuff” (1982). His exceptional efficiency garnered vital acclaim, together with a nomination from the British Academy of Movie and Tv Arts (BAFTA) and a BAFTA win for finest drama sequence.

Coincidentally, Hill’s passing occurred on the identical day the second sequence of the BBC drama “The Responder” was scheduled to air, through which he performed a big function as the daddy of the present’s star, Martin Freeman.

Lindsay Salt, director of BBC Drama, paid tribute to Hill, recognizing his enduring affect on the display and expressing condolences to his family members. Hill’s legacy as a flexible and proficient actor will proceed to resonate with audiences worldwide.